Latest news with #AwaWagyu
FACT
07-04-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
KEN by Kamatsuda Review: Is this Dubai's most expensive restaurant?
The Japanese restaurant specialises in rare Wagyu beef. Dubai is a city known for its expensive tastes, from top-tier hotels to supercars, super yachts and fine dining experiences such as Sublimotion (AED 5,000 per head), FZN (AED 2,000 per head) and Row on 45 (AED AED 1,245 per head), which despite the prominent price point have become the trend du jour for both customers and critics. Located in The Dubai EDITION, the newly opened KEN by Kamatsuda follows this trajectory but is not a restaurant for the masses. It's a hushed, reverent space for those who seek their sushi with substance. Owner and chef Ken Kamatsuda takes pride in his direct relationships with Japanese producers, allowing him to source rare and exclusive ingredients, many of which are found nowhere else in Dubai. The menu features prized Awa Wagyu beef, renowned for its rich flavour, sweet marbling, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, as well as fresh Saga Red Uni, flown in directly from Toyosu Market in Japan. However, it's the restaurant's omakase experience, priced at AED 5,000 per head, that has garnered much attention. Taking over the space on the hotel's first floor previously occupied by the cocktail bar Ergo, KEN by Kamatsuda has stripped away the industrial brashness of its former guise and replaced it with a discreet dining room. The minimalist interior is a masterstroke in Japanese restraint: subtle lighting, clean lines and touches of raw wood draw the eye directly to the showpiece—a small sushi counter behind which the magic unfolds. There are no distractions here, just the knife work of a culinary team whose focus is absolute. Touches of nature creep into the dining room via stones and small Bonsai trees placed strategically between guests' chopsticks and glassware, bringing a sense of nature into an otherwise urban environment; a grand piano provides the soundtrack, yet the focus remains on the premium ingredients. The omakase menu (priced between AED 1,200 and AED 5,000 per head) is an exercise in elevated simplicity that leaves your meal entirely in the hands of Chef Kamatsuda. The Gokan offering, translating loosely to 'the five senses,' comprises thirteen dishes, all honouring the heritage of Japanese Kaiseki while celebrating Dubai's appetite for indulgence. The procession opens with a Luxury Bowl, a jewel box of scallop, salmon roe, and Awa Wagyu, delicately topped with caviar. Wrapped in premium Yoshino River nori, it's a dish that whispers luxury. Next comes the Omer Chawanmushi, a silken egg custard infused with blue crab and lobster that has been slow-cooked for three hours and crowned with a concentrated bisque. The result? Pure umami with a depth that could rival the ocean itself. The Wagyu Niku Sushi is crafted with the highest-grade A5 Awa Wagyu, lightly seared and gently draped over vinegared rice. It melts on the tongue, leaving behind a beautiful buttery richness. The Otoro Nigiri, a decadent cut of buttery bluefin tuna, is pressed by hand and served just above room temperature, the fat melting on contact with the tongue. The kitchen team displays intimate energy and a gentle rhythm that mirrors the omakase experience. One course flows into the next with precision, each dish more quietly confident than the last. Inspired by the sea of clouds over Mount Fuji, The Unkai is a poetic plate of charcoal-seared Awa Wagyu tataki, where the smoky aroma is lifted by basil oil and brightened by a sweet apple and onion sauce. Served amidst plumes of smoke in a bulbous glass bowl, it's a dish that commands silence at the counter, a moment to taste and reflect. Then comes the Cuttlet Sandwich. A piece of premium A5 Wagyu tenderloin in garlic butter sauce, sandwiched between a soft, sweet brioche. Continuing the carnivorous cravings, an Awa Wagyu Steak, grilled low and slow, is sliced with surgical precision and paired with a sticky balsamic reduction and mashed potatoes. The Awa Wagyu Yakisukiyaki takes the traditional sukiyaki and reimagines it, Kamatsuda-style, with grilled Awa Wagyu swimming in a luscious egg yolk sauce. Prepared with candy floss and soy, the notes of sweetness linger long after the final bite. But of course, KEN doesn't stop there. Tableside Coconut Ice Cream is churned fresh before your eyes and scooped over a delicate fruit compote for a refreshing finale. And for the indecisive sweet tooth? A curated dessert plate tailored to your preferences with fresh fruits, Japanese cheesecake and matcha tiramisu rounds out the proceedings. The service is attentive without hovering. The team explains each course with a reverence that's never rehearsed, and pairings are thoughtfully matched to elevate rather than overpower. Dubai is no stranger to high-end Japanese dining. From the long-standing titans like Zuma to shiny new imports such as Kinugawa and Kiyoshi, the city has seen its fair share of omakase counters. While the comparison to the FACT Award-winning TakaHisa will inevitably be drawn, KEN by Kamatsuda offers a return to craftsmanship, a focus on premium products and meticulous attention to detail. It won't be for everyone, and that's precisely the point. KEN by Kamatsuda doesn't shout for attention, and the premium pricing will deter some. There are no selfie walls or DJ sets, and in a city that often confuses flash for flavour, KEN by Kamatsuda is a welcome whisper. GO: Visit for reservations and more information.
What's On
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
9 new restaurants in Dubai to check out right now
Dubai's dining scene never slows down, and this March, it's heating up with an exciting line-up of new restaurants in Dubai. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly Korean grill, a soulful celebration of Emirati cuisine, or a playful night of crazy golf with friends, there's no shortage of new restaurants in Dubai, and March is looking deliciously diverse. Here are the best new restaurants in Dubai to add to your foodie bucket list this March. Ken by Kamatsuda Meat lovers, rejoice – Ken is the dining experience you've been waiting for. Opening this February, this sleek Japanese restaurant is all about melt-in-your-mouth Awa Wagyu, flown straight from Japan and served in an exquisite omakase-style menu. Paired with fresh seafood prepared with precision, Ken's focus is craftsmanship and flavour. Whether you're a lover of Wagyu or just feeling adventurous to try something new, Ken promises a dining experience that's as exciting as it is delicious. Ken by Kamatsuda, The Dubai EDITION Hotel, Downtown. @kenbykamatsuda Hanu Nestled in the serene surroundings of St Regis Gardens on the Palm, Hanu promises a unique twist on contemporary Korean cuisine. This intimate eatery, brought to you by Sunset Hospitality (the minds behind Sushisamba and Baoli), is one of the new restaurants in Dubai to look forward to, offering an atmospheric blend of traditional and modern design, complete with Korean artwork and a private dining lounge centred around a striking pine tree. Expect bold flavours with a show-stopping highlight: 'Meat Me at the Grill.' Guests can play grill master as tables feature bespoke charcoal grills, with waiters preparing premium cuts of meat tableside. Paired with serene alfresco views and innovative dishes like oversized kimbap handrolls, Hanu offers a dining experience as playful as it is delicious. Hanu, St Regis Gardens, Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah, opening March. @hanu_dubai Gerbou A love letter to Emirati culture, Gerbou is a homegrown gem opening this February in Nad Al Sheba. Meaning 'welcome to my humble abode,' Gerbou combines sustainable dining with deep-rooted cultural reverence. Housed in a renovated 1987 building, its design reflects warm Arab textures with a modern twist, creating a cosy yet refined ambiance. The menu dives deep into traditional Emirati flavours with a modern touch, making it a perfect spot to honour heritage or simply enjoy a soulful dining experience that feels distinctly Dubai. Gerbou, Nad Al Sheba, opening February. @gerbou Girl & the Goose Girl & the Goose is a space built on history and home-style comfort. A terracotta-framed entrance sets the tone, leading into an intimate dining room with rust-red furniture, rattan details, and traditional arches. At the centre, an open kitchen brings diners up close to the action, where Chef Gabi prepares dishes with the same warmth and energy as her supper club days. The menu leans into bold, time-honoured flavours. Crispy duck flautas are rich and smoky, balanced by a tart and spicy salsa. The nacatamal de pollo, a traditional masa dish slow-cooked in banana leaves, is soft and deeply satisfying. Steak tacos come stacked with herby chimichurri and chili mayo, while Nicaraguan empanadas bring a mix of sharp goat cheese and caramelised onion. It's Central American food with a sharp point of view –rooted in tradition but made for today. Girl & the Goose, Restaurante Centroamericano, Anantara Downtown, daily, 12pm to 1am, Tel: (0) 52 772 9888, @ Swingers For a playful twist on dining, check out Swingers on Bluewaters Island. Spanning 22,000 square feet over two floors, Swingers is a crazy golf venue with three creative courses inspired by classic English themes. Highlights include a hot air balloon course and Dubai-exclusive speakeasy lounge for private events. Whether you're rallying the crew for a night of friendly competition or planning a fun group hang, Swingers blends mini-golf madness with laid-back, cool vibes. Swingers, Bluewaters Island. Tel: (0)4 557 6309 . @swingers_uae Dine by day, dance by night at KIRA & LITT The team behind CLAP is back with KIRA Restaurant and LITT Bar Club, opening March 14 at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Two sides of the same light – KIRA offers a menu rooted in Mediterranean and Japanese flavours, with a focus on wild-caught seafood, robot-fired meats, and handcrafted pasta. The terrace is a laid-back outdoor space with uninterrupted views of Burj Al Arab. As the night moves on, LITT picks up the pace. Located inside KIRA with its own entrance, it's a nightlife spot built around music, atmosphere, and an incredible cocktail list that puts agave spirits at the forefront. Ready to experience both worlds? Reservations are now open. KIRA Restaurant, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel, opening March 14, daily 12pm – 2am. @kirarestaurant LITT Bar Club, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel, opening March 14, Tuesday to Saturday 9pm – 3am. @littbarclub Folly Brasserie Foodies were heartbroken when Folly and its Madinat Jumeirah sibling, Publique, closed their doors in 2024. But true to his promise, Gates Hospitality founder Naim Maddad is bringing Folly back with a fresh new chapter. Now known as Folly Brasserie, this iconic spot gets a fresh start at Address Montgomerie in Emirates Hills, promising a new chapter that feels just as exciting as the original. While the details remain under wraps, the excitement for this new restaurant in Dubai is building for its February debut. Expect the same culinary excellence Folly fans adore, now in a stunning new setting. Folly Brasserie, Address Montgomerie, Emirates Hills. @follydubai Revolver Dubai's vibrant dining scene welcomes Revolver Dubai, an electrifying new restaurant that blends South Asian spice and fire-driven techniques with modern innovation. Originally a Michelin Select in Singapore, Revolver Dubai now sets its sights on Dubai, bringing an immersive and theatrical dining experience to The Opus by Omniyat, Business Bay. At the heart of Revolver Dubai lies an open wood-fired grill, brazier, and tandoor, where Chef Jitin Joshi, a Michelin-starred veteran with 27 years of experience, masterfully elevates world-class ingredients through bold and innovative techniques. Expect an edgy, high-energy spectacle that transforms traditional South Asian flavors into modern culinary artistry. The standout dishes promise an explosion of flavours, like the lobster manchurian, an original and classic from Revolver Singapore; this dish is made with Australian rock lobster and a sauce from Tangra in Kolkata where immigrants from China / Tibet settled and created a cuisine with their original recipes and local ingredients. The portobello mushroom steak is marinated in ginger garlic paste and house-ground spices for 24 hours, grilled for a smoky depth, and paired with lentil-based brown butter hummus and charred Madras onions. Revolver Dubai, The Opus by Omniyat, Business Bay, Tel: (0) 4 257 9334, reservations@ The Beam A fresh new dining experience is lighting up Dubai's culinary scene with the arrival of The Beam. Set within the lush surroundings of Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, this homegrown concept by Chef Nick Alvis is all about a laid-back bistro-style experience. The menu features simple flavours, with a focus on seasonal, responsibly sourced ingredients. Whether you're craving the freshest seafood from the restaurant's signature counter or unwinding with a drink at the terrace bar, The Beam is a must-visit for those who love great food without the fuss. The Beam, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa. @thebeamdubai Images: Supplied/Instagram
What's On
29-01-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
New restaurants in Dubai to check out this February
Dubai's dining scene never slows down, and this February, it's heating up with an exciting line-up of fresh new restaurants. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly Korean grill, a soulful celebration of Emirati cuisine, or a playful night of crazy golf with friends, there's no shortage of new restaurants in Dubai, and February is looking deliciously diverse—Ready to book a table? Here are the best new restaurants in Dubai to add to your foodie bucket list this February. Ken by Kamatsuda Meat lovers, rejoice—Ken is the dining experience you've been waiting for. Opening this February, this sleek Japanese restaurant is all about melt-in-your-mouth Awa Wagyu, flown straight from Japan and served in an exquisite omakase-style menu. Paired with fresh seafood prepared with precision, Ken's focus is craftsmanship and flavour. Whether you're a lover of Wagyu or just feeling adventurous to try something new, Ken promises a dining experience that's as exciting as it is delicious. Ken by Kamatsuda, The Dubai EDITION Hotel, Downtown, opening February 2025. @kenbykamatsuda Hanu Nestled in the serene surroundings of St Regis Gardens on the Palm, Hanu promises a unique twist on contemporary Korean cuisine. This intimate eatery, brought to you by Sunset Hospitality (the minds behind Sushisamba and Baoli), is one of the new restaurants in Dubai to look forward to, offering an atmospheric blend of traditional and modern design, complete with Korean artwork and a private dining lounge centred around a striking pine tree. Expect bold flavours with a show-stopping highlight: 'Meat Me at the Grill.' Guests can play grill master as tables feature bespoke charcoal grills, with waiters preparing premium cuts of meat tableside. Paired with serene alfresco views and innovative dishes like oversized kimbap handrolls, Hanu offers a dining experience as playful as it is delicious. Hanu, St Regis Gardens, Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah, opening February. @hanu_dubai Gerbou A love letter to Emirati culture, Gerbou is a homegrown gem opening this February in Nad Al Sheba. Meaning 'welcome to my humble abode,' Gerbou combines sustainable dining with deep-rooted cultural reverence. Housed in a renovated 1987 building, its design reflects warm Arab textures with a modern twist, creating a cosy yet refined ambiance. The menu dives deep into traditional Emirati flavours with a modern touch, making it a perfect spot to honour heritage or simply enjoy a soulful dining experience that feels distinctly Dubai. Gerbou, Nad Al Sheba, opening February. @gerbou Swingers For a playful twist on dining, check out Swingers on Bluewaters Island. Spanning 22,000 square feet over two floors, Swingers is a crazy golf venue with three creative courses inspired by classic English themes. Highlights include a hot air balloon course and Dubai-exclusive speakeasy lounge for private events. Whether you're rallying the crew for a night of friendly competition or planning a fun group hang, Swingers blends mini-golf madness with laid-back, cool vibes. Swingers, Bluewaters Island, opening February. @swingers_uae Folly Brasserie Foodies were heartbroken when Folly and its Madinat Jumeirah sibling, Publique, closed their doors in 2024. But true to his promise, Gates Hospitality founder Naim Maddad is bringing Folly back with a fresh new chapter. Now known as Folly Brasserie, this iconic spot gets a fresh start at Address Montgomerie in Emirates Hills, promising a new chapter that feels just as exciting as the original. While the details remain under wraps, the excitement for this new restaurant in Dubai is building for its February debut. Expect the same culinary excellence Folly fans adore, now in a stunning new setting. Folly Brasserie, Address Montgomerie, Emirates Hills, opening February 2025. @follydubai BeBabel The Palm BeBabel The Palm has landed at Club Vista Mare, serving up bold Lebanese flavours with a vibrant, modern twist—a chic, casual spin on the acclaimed Babel restaurant. Whether it's a leisurely lunch, shisha at golden hour, or dinner under the stars, the beachfront views of Dubai's skyline set the perfect scene. The menu celebrates Lebanon's culinary heritage with a modern twist. Think bold mezze, fresh local ingredients, and signature dishes like Hummus Tequila, Shrimp Freekeh, and Bulgur Paella. At its heart is a signature bread oven, serving freshly baked bread straight from the flames—a perfect match for the menu's vibrant flavours. With a focus on living in the moment, BeBabel is an ideal spot for gathering with loved ones. Plus, it's pet-friendly, so your furry friends can join the fun too. BeBabel The Palm, Club Vista Mare. @bebabelthepalm
